A lithium manganese iron phosphate (LMFP) battery is a lithium-iron phosphate battery (LFP) that includes manganese as a cathode component. As of 2023, multiple companies are readying LMFP batteries for commercial use.[1] Vendors claim that LMFP batteries can be competitive in cost with LFP, while achieving superior performance.[2]
Chinese battery company Gotion claims to have achieved weight energy density of 240 Wh/kg, a volume energy density of 525 Wh/l, and a duration of 1800-4000 cycles. Weight energy density at the pack level is 190 Wh/kg.[1]
In 2014, BYD Auto announced its intentions to offer LMFP batteries in its vehicles in 2015. As of 2023, the batteries had not been released.[3]
In 2022, Gotion reached agreement with the US state of Michigan on a package of incentives for building a large battery factory in the northern part of the state, despite some local opposition.[1]
Contemporary Amperex Technology (CATL) with its M3P battery announced plans to ship batteries in 2023, while BYD, Sunwoda, and Eve Energy are also commercializing LMFP batteries.[2]
Commercializing the technology involved reducing manganese dissolution at high temperatures, increasing conductivity and compaction density, granulation technology, and electrolyte additives are all challenges faced by LMFP batteries. [1] The company received a patent on its technology.[4]